Dangers of blue light with macular degeneration!

Age Related Maculopathy and the Impact of Blue Light Exposure
It has long been speculated that exposure to sunlight might be associated with the development of Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD). Animal and cell culture studies have shown that visible light can cause damage to retinal photoreceptors, especially in eyes that have had cataract surgery, coupled with an intraocular lens implant. The earliest pathological development in macular degeneration is the accumulation of lipofuscin in the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. This lipofuscin accumulation leads to the development of drusen or wart-like structures growing from the RPE. Studies have shown that short wave radiation and blue light (wavelength around 440 nm) can impact the photoreceptor and RPE function. Following cataract surgery, there is a significant increase in absorption of blue light since the protective effect of the human lens is absent. I am strongly recommending that all patients with macular degeneration, especially those that have had cataract surgery, invest in a pair of blue blocking glasses. There are many companies that produce blue blocking lenses, but one that is very effective is the Corning CPF-511. Make certain that your glasses have a blue blocker to help you maintain your vision!